• Overview
  • Obesity prevalence
  • Trends over time
  • Population breakdowns
  • Drivers
  • Comorbidities
  • Economic impact
  • Policies
  • Contextual factors
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Obesity prevalence

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:Official Statistics Latvia. EHIS 2019 results. Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/en/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__vesel_ap/VEA070.px/. Last accessed: 10.06.21.
Notes:Participant numbers currently not available. Data from EHIS: representative sample will be ensured.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Area covered:National
References:Official Statistics Latvia. EHIS 2019 results. Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/en/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__vesel_ap/VEA070.px/. Last accessed: 10.06.21.
Notes:Participant numbers currently not available. Data from EHIS: representative sample will be ensured.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2008-2009

Survey type:Measured
Age:25-74
Sample size:3807
Area covered:National
References:Ērglis A1, Dzērve V, Pahomova-Strautiņa J, Narbute I et al. A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study of Cardiovascular Risk Factor in Latvia. Medicina (Kaunas). 2012;48(6):310-6.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2000-2003

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Yearbook 2006/07. A goldmine of statistical information. Available at https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/documents/2995521/5059290/1-20022007-BP-EN.PDF.pdf/edab8c31-b9f3-4c8e-b4db-4137bd045efa?t=1414683510000 (last accessed 04.11.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 1997

Survey type:Measured
Age:19-64
Sample size:2292
References:Pomerleau J, Pudule I, Grinberga D, Kadziauskiene K, Abaravicius A, Bartkeviciute R, Vaask S, Robertson A, McKee M. Patterns of body weight in the Baltic Republics. Public Health Nutrition. 2000;3:3-10
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2018

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-15
Sample size:4396
Area covered:National
References:Oja, L., Slapšinskaitė, A., Piksööt, J. and Šmigelskas, K., 2020. Baltic Adolescents’ Health Behaviour: An International Comparison. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(22), p.8609.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2018-2020

Survey type:Measured
Age:7
Sample size:2768
Area covered:National
References:Report on the fifth round of data collection, 2018–2020: WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI). Copenhagen: WHO Regional Office for Europe; 2022. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
Cutoffs:WHO 2007

Children, 2015

Survey type:Measured
Age:7
Sample size:2737
Area covered:National
References:Report on the fourth round of data collection, 2015–2017: WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI).
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2012-2013

Survey type:Measured
Age:7
Sample size:3481
Area covered:National
References:WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION. (2018). WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative: overweight and obesity among 6–9-year-old children. Available: http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/378865/COSI-3.pdf?ua=1. Last accessed [Accessed 28th Aug 2018].
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2007-2008

Survey type:Measured
Age:7
Sample size:3249
Area covered:National
References:Wijnhoven, T.M.A., van Raaij, J.M.A., Spinelli, A., Rito, A.I., Hovengen, R., Kunesova, M., Starc, G., Rutter, H., Sjöberg, A., Petrauskiene, A., O'Dwyer, U., Petrova, S., Farrugia Sant'Angelo, V., Wauters, M., Yngve, A., Rubana, I.-M. and Breda, J. (2013), WHO-COSI 2008: weight, height and BMI. Pediatric Obesity, 8: 79-97. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2047-6310.2012.00090.x
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2007-2013

Survey type:Measured
Age:7
Sample size:9561
Area covered:National
References:Spinelli et al (2019). 'Childhood Severe Obesity in Europe', Obes Facts.12, pp. 244–258. (Data from COSI round 1-3)
Notes:NOTE - this data is from COSI round I, II and III (2007 - 2013)
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2007-2008

Survey type:Measured
Age:7
Sample size:3249
Area covered:National
References:Wijnhoven, T.M.A., van Raaij, J.M.A., Spinelli, A., Rito, A.I., Hovengen, R., Kunesova, M., Starc, G., Rutter, H., Sjöberg, A., Petrauskiene, A., O'Dwyer, U., Petrova, S., Farrugia Sant'Angelo, V., Wauters, M., Yngve, A., Rubana, I.-M. and Breda, J. (2013), WHO-COSI 2008: weight, height and BMI. Pediatric Obesity, 8: 79-97. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2047-6310.2012.00090.x
Cutoffs:WHO 2007

Overweight/obesity by age and education

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Notes:NB. Some age ranges missing due to insufficient data to display by age & educational status
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Notes:NB. Some age ranges missing due to insufficient data to display by age & educational status
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Notes:NB. Some age ranges missing due to insufficient data to display by age & educational status
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by education

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Area covered:National
References:Official Statistics Latvia. EHIS 2019 results. Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/en/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__vesel_ap/VEA070.px/. Last accessed: 10.06.21.
Notes:Participant numbers currently not available. Data from EHIS: representative sample will be ensured.
Definitions:ISDEC levels 0 and 1 = No formal education, less than primary or primary education, ISCED level 2 = Lower secondary education (basic education), ISCED levels 3 and 4 = General secondary education or professional secondary education, ISCED levels 5 to 8 = Higher education
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:Less than primary, primary and lower secondary education (levels 0-2) Upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education (levels 3 and 4) Tertiary education (levels 5-8)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:Less than primary, primary and lower secondary education (levels 0-2) Upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education (levels 3 and 4) Tertiary education (levels 5-8)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015)
Notes:Definitions are: levels 0-2 = pre-primary, primary and lower secondary education levels 3-4 = upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education levels 5-6 = first and second stage of tertiary education
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015)
Notes:Definitions are: levels 0-2 = pre-primary, primary and lower secondary education levels 3-4 = upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education levels 5-6 = first and second stage of tertiary education
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:20-64
Sample size:1369
Area covered:National
References:https://www.thl.fi/fi/web/thlfi-en/research-and-expertwork/projects-and-programmes/finbalt-health-monitor (last accessed 2nd June 2015)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:20-64
Sample size:1369
Area covered:National
References:https://www.thl.fi/fi/web/thlfi-en/research-and-expertwork/projects-and-programmes/finbalt-health-monitor (last accessed 2nd June 2015)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2006-2009

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18-74
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT data: ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Overweight_and_obesity_-_BMI_statistics (last accessed 20.5.15)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2006-2009

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18-74
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT data: ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Overweight_and_obesity_-_BMI_statistics (last accessed 20.5.15)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 1997

Survey type:Measured
Age:19-64
Sample size:2292
Area covered:National
References:Originally provided by WHO Europe then published in Pomerleau J et al. Patterns of body weight in the Baltic Republics Public Health Nutrition, 2000, 3:3-10
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 1997

Survey type:Measured
Age:19-64
Sample size:2292
Area covered:National
References:Originally provided by WHO Europe then published in Pomerleau J et al. Patterns of body weight in the Baltic Republics Public Health Nutrition, 2000, 3:3-10
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by age

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Official Statistics Latvia. EHIS 2019 results. Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/en/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__vesel_ap/VEA070.px/. Last accessed: 10.06.21.
Notes:Participant numbers currently not available. Data from EHIS: representative sample will be ensured. Data for ages 15-24 missing.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Sample size:1369
Area covered:National
References:https://www.thl.fi/fi/web/thlfi-en/research-and-expertwork/projects-and-programmes/finbalt-health-monitor (last accessed 2nd June 2015)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2018-2020

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:5664
Area covered:National
References:Report on the fifth round of data collection, 2018–2020: WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI). Copenhagen: WHO Regional Office for Europe; 2022. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
Cutoffs:WHO 2007

Children, 2015-2017

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:5350
Area covered:National
References:WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI) Report on the fourth round of data collection, 2015–2017 (2021). Available at: https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/disease-prevention/nutrition/activities/who-european-childhood-obesity-surveillance-initiative-cosi/cosi-publications/who-european-childhood-obesity-surveillance-initiative-cosi-report-on-the-fourth-round-of-data-collection,-20152017-2021. Accessed 19.05.21.
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2001-2002

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Currie C, Roberts C, Morgan A, Smith R, Settertobulte W, Samdal O et al (2004). Young People's Health in Context. Health Behaviour in School aged Children (HSBC) study: international report from the 2001/2 survey (Health Policy for Children and Adolescents, No 4). Copenhagen: World Health Organization REgional Office for Europe.
Notes:Self Report
Cutoffs:IOTF

Overweight/obesity by region

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Area covered:National
References:Official Statistics Latvia. EHIS 2019 results. Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/en/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__vesel_ap/VEA070.px/. Last accessed: 10.06.21.
Notes:Participant numbers currently not available. Data from EHIS: representative sample will be ensured.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:16+
Sample size:10 933
Area covered:National
References:Income and Living Conditions in Latvia 2017 (2018). Available at: https://www.csb.gov.lv/en/statistics/statistics-by-theme/social-conditions/poverty/search-in-theme/305-income-and-living-conditions-latvia-2017. Last accessed: 02.06.21.
Notes:Data also available at - Official Statistics of Latvia. Population body mass index (BMI) in 2017 (%). Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/lv/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__veseliba_modulis/MOD17_07.px/.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:20-64
Sample size:1369
Area covered:National
References:https://www.thl.fi/fi/web/thlfi-en/research-and-expertwork/projects-and-programmes/finbalt-health-monitor (last accessed 2nd June 2015)
Notes:Trend data also available for 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004 & 2006
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:20-64
Sample size:1369
Area covered:National
References:https://www.thl.fi/fi/web/thlfi-en/research-and-expertwork/projects-and-programmes/finbalt-health-monitor (last accessed 2nd June 2015)
Notes:Trend data also available for 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004 & 2006
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 1997

Survey type:Measured
Age:19-64
Sample size:2292
Area covered:National
References:Originally provided by WHO Europe then published in Pomerleau J et al. Patterns of body weight in the Baltic Republics Public Health Nutrition, 2000, 3:3-10
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 1997

Survey type:Measured
Age:19-64
Sample size:2292
Area covered:National
References:Originally provided by WHO Europe then published in Pomerleau J et al. Patterns of body weight in the Baltic Republics Public Health Nutrition, 2000, 3:3-10
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2010

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:7
Area covered:National
References:Latvian Cosi Study: www.lm.gov.lv/upload/berns.../bernu.../akti/lmzino_280513_berni.doc (last accessed 25.8.15)
Notes:WHO child BMI Cut-offs
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:7
Area covered:National
References:Latvian Cosi Study: www.lm.gov.lv/upload/berns.../bernu.../akti/lmzino_280513_berni.doc (last accessed 25.8.15)
Notes:WHO child BMI cut-offs
Cutoffs:WHO

Overweight/obesity by age and region

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1u&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1u&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by age and socio-economic group

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Notes:NB. Some age ranges missing due to insufficient data to display by age & income quintile
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Notes:NB. Some age ranges missing due to insufficient data to display by age & income quintile
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Notes:NB. Some age ranges missing due to insufficient data to display by age & income quintile
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by socio-economic group

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Area covered:National
References:Official Statistics Latvia. EHIS 2019 results. Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/en/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__vesel_ap/VEA070.px/. Last accessed: 10.06.21.
Notes:Participant numbers currently not available. Data from EHIS: representative sample will be ensured.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:16+
Sample size:10 933
Area covered:National
References:Income and Living Conditions in Latvia 2017 (2018). Available at: https://www.csb.gov.lv/en/statistics/statistics-by-theme/social-conditions/poverty/search-in-theme/305-income-and-living-conditions-latvia-2017. Last accessed: 02.06.21.
Notes:Data also available at - Official Statistics of Latvia. Population body mass index (BMI) in 2017 (%). Available at: https://data.stat.gov.lv/pxweb/lv/OSP_OD/OSP_OD__apsekojumi__veseliba_modulis/MOD17_07.px/.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample number in EU: 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database: http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:1st Quintile (lowest income), 5th Quintile (highest income) Please note where data = zero, there were insufficient data.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample number in EU: 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database: http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:1st Quintile (lowest income), 5th Quintile (highest income) Please note where data = zero, there were insufficient data.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015)
Notes:SES assessed on annual income. Insufficient data for 5th Quintile.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015)
Notes:SES assessed on annual income. Insufficient data for 5th Quintile.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 1997

Survey type:Measured
Age:19-64
Sample size:2292
Area covered:National
References:Originally provided by WHO Europe then published in Pomerleau J et al. Patterns of body weight in the Baltic Republics Public Health Nutrition, 2000, 3:3-10
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 1997

Survey type:Measured
Age:19-64
Sample size:2292
Area covered:National
References:Originally provided by WHO Europe then published in Pomerleau J et al. Patterns of body weight in the Baltic Republics Public Health Nutrition, 2000, 3:3-10
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Boys, 2017-2018

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-15
Sample size:4396
Area covered:National
References:World Health Organization (2020). Spotlight on adolescent health and well-being - Findings from the 2017/2018 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey in Europe and Canada. Available at: https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/332091/9789289055000-eng.pdf. Last accessed: 20.05.21.
Notes:HBSC Family Affluence Scale (FAS) - "HBSC uses an alternative measure, the Family Affluence Scale, which asks young people about material assets such as family cars, number of foreign holidays, computers, bathrooms and dishwashers in the household, holidays and having a bedroom to oneself. The scale, which enables users to add up how many of these assets a young person has in their home compared with other adolescents in their country/region, has been shown to provide a valid indicator of relative affluence."
Definitions:HBSC Family Affluence Scale (FAS)
Cutoffs:WHO

Girls, 2017-2018

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-15
Sample size:4396
Area covered:National
References:World Health Organization (2020). Spotlight on adolescent health and well-being - Findings from the 2017/2018 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey in Europe and Canada. Available at: https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/332091/9789289055000-eng.pdf. Last accessed: 20.05.21.
Notes:HBSC Family Affluence Scale (FAS) - "HBSC uses an alternative measure, the Family Affluence Scale, which asks young people about material assets such as family cars, number of foreign holidays, computers, bathrooms and dishwashers in the household, holidays and having a bedroom to oneself. The scale, which enables users to add up how many of these assets a young person has in their home compared with other adolescents in their country/region, has been shown to provide a valid indicator of relative affluence."
Definitions:HBSC Family Affluence Scale (FAS)
Cutoffs:WHO

Overweight/obesity by age and limited activity

Adults, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2014 available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/submitViewTableAction.do (last accessed 06.10.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2014 available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/submitViewTableAction.do (last accessed 06.10.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2014 available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/submitViewTableAction.do (last accessed 06.10.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Insufficient physical activity

Adults, 2016

References:Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7

Men, 2016

References:Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7

Women, 2016

References:Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7

Children, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Boys, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Girls, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Children, 2010

Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Boys, 2010

Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Girls, 2010

Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Sugar consumption

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International
Definitions:Sugar consumption (Number of 500g sugar portions/person/month)

Estimated per capita sugar sweetened beverages intake

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International

Prevalence of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption

Children, 2014

Survey type:Measured
References:World Health Organization. (2017). Adolescent obesity and related behaviours: Trends and inequalities in the who european region, 2002-2014: observations from the Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) WHO collaborative cross-national study (J. Inchley, D. Currie, J. Jewel, J. Breda, & V. Barnekow, Eds.). World Health Organization. Sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org
Notes:15-year-old adolescents
Definitions:Prevalence of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption (% of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption)

Prevalence of confectionery consumption

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International
Definitions:Prevalence of confectionery consumption (Number of 50g confectionery portions/person/month)

Prevalence of sweet/savoury snack consumption

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International
Definitions:Prevalence of sweet/savoury snack consumption (Number of 35g sweet/savoury snack portions/person/month)

Estimated per capita fruit intake

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:25+
References:Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/
Definitions:Estimated per-capita fruit intake (g/day)

Prevalence of less than daily fruit consumption

Children, 2014

Survey type:Measured
References:Global School-based Student Health Surveys. Beal et al (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287. Sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system
Definitions:Prevalence of less-than-daily fruit consumption (% less-than-daily fruit consumption)

Prevalence of less than daily vegetable consumption

Children, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:12-17
References:Beal et al. (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287 sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system
Definitions:Prevalence of less-than-daily vegetable consumption (% less-than-daily vegetable consumption)

Estimated per-capita processed meat intake

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:25+
References:Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/
Definitions:Estimated per-capita processed meat intake (g per day)

Estimated per capita whole grains intake

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:25+
References:Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/
Definitions:Estimated per-capita whole grains intake (g/day)

Mental health - depression disorders

Adults, 2015

References:Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
Definitions:% of population with depression disorders

Mental health - anxiety disorders

Adults, 2015

References:Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
Definitions:% of population with anxiety disorders

Oesophageal cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Breast cancer

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Colorectal cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Pancreatic cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Gallbladder cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Kidney cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Cancer of the uterus

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2213
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Raised blood pressure

Adults, 2015

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en
Definitions:Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90).

Men, 2015

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en
Definitions:Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90).

Women, 2015

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en
Definitions:Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90).

Raised cholesterol

Adults, 2008

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885
Definitions:% Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate).

Men, 2008

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885
Definitions:% Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate).

Women, 2008

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885
Definitions:% Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate).

Raised fasting blood glucose

Men, 2014

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en
Definitions:Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication).

Women, 2014

References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en
Definitions:Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication).

Diabetes prevalence

Adults, 2021

Age:20-79
Area covered:National
References:Reproduced with kind permission International Diabetes Federation.  IDF Diabetes Atlas, 10th edn. Brussels, Belgium:International Diabetes Federation, 2021. http://www.diabetesatlas.org
Definitions:Age-adjusted comparative prevalence of diabetes, %

Adults, 2019

Age:20-79
References:Reproduced with kind permission International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 9th edn. Brussels,Belgium: 2019. Available at: https://www.diabetesatlas.org
Definitions:Diabetes age-adjusted comparative prevalence (%).

Adults, 2017

References:Reproduced with kind permission of IDF, International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 8th edition. Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation, 2017. http://www.diabetesatlas.org
Definitions:Diabetes age-adjusted comparative prevalence (%).

Economic impact of overweight and obesity

Country comparisons

You can choose to compare this country’s data with the data for up to four other countries.

Policies, Interventions and Actions

Physical activity guidelines

"Physical activity for Latvian residents" - guidelines for adults and children.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2020 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Centre for Disease Prevention and Control of Latvia
Linked document:Download linked document

Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards trans fat, other than trans fat naturally occurring in fat of animal origin

Measures to limit or virtually eliminate industrially-produced trans fatty acids in food intended for the final consumer and/or for supply to retail. Adopted by The European Commission from April 2019. (Available in multiple languages)

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:The European Commission
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/36162 (last accessed 12.07.22)

Transforming Baltic Diets

Workshop - Defining and developing criteria for sustainable and healthy Baltic diets in order to generate a tangible future roadmap • Coordinating existing data across the region that reflects the current state of the Baltic food system and its components and harvesting useful data and analyses that can help policy-makers to develop better and more targeted solutions • Creating an independent Baltic future food “lab” to put new and innovative ideas to the test, and to scale up what already works in order to create more buy-in within the region

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:WHO Europe, Nordic Council of Ministers Secretariat and Baltic offices
Linked document:Download linked document

NCD Country Profiles 2018 (Obesity Targets)

The profiles also provide data on the key metabolic risk factors, namely raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose and obesity and National Targets on Obesity (as of 2017)

Categories:Evidence of Obesity Target
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:World Health Organisation
References:Noncommunicable diseases country profiles 2018. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2018. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.

School Fruit, Vegetables and Milk Scheme

"Applicable since 1 August 2017, the EU school fruit, vegetables and milk scheme combines two previous schemes (the school fruit and vegetables scheme and the school milk scheme) under a single legal framework for more efficiency and an enhanced focus on health and educational. The scheme supports the distribution of products, educational measures and information measures. The scheme supports the distribution of fruit, vegetables, milk and certain milk products to schoolchildren, from nursery to secondary school. EU countries approve a list of products (in collaboration with their health and nutrition authorities) which will help achieve the schemes objective of helping children to follow a healthy diet. Priority is for fresh fruit and vegetables and for plain milk. In order to support a varied diet and/or specific nutritional needs, EU countries may also make processed fruit and vegetables such as juices and soups and certain milk products such as yoghurt and cheese, available. Additionally, under stricter conditions, milk-based drinks may be included." - EU Commission

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Organisation:European Commission
Find out more:ec.europa.eu
References:https://ec.europa.eu/info/food-farming-fisheries/key-policies/common-agricultural-policy/market-measures/school-fruit-vegetables-and-milk-scheme/school-scheme-explained_en

Energy drinks Law

Latvia has banned the sale and advertisement of energy drinks containing caffeine or stimulants like taurine and guarana to people under the age of 18.

Categories:Taxation/Subsidies on Food or Beverages or law relating to public health
Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children

GNPR 2016-2017: Infant and young child nutrition - Breastfeeding promotion and/or counselling

This programme was reported by countries for the 2nd WHO Global Nutrition Policy Review 2016-2017 module on actions related to infant and young child nutrition. Information provided by WHO GINA Programme.

Categories:Evidence of Breastfeeding promotion or related activity
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Find out more:extranet.who.int
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en

Grozījums Reklāmas likumā

Advertising aimed at children and young people shall not encourage or condone excessive consumption of foods and beverages containing substances the excessive consumption of which is not recommended, such as fats, trans fatty acids, salt or sodium and sugars. Adopted by Saeimā from November 2016. (Available only in Latvian language)

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Saeimā
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA):https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/8474 (last accessed 20.07.22)

Health Promotion program for Jelgava city 2016-2022

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2016-2022
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Jelgava city council
Find out more:www.jelgava.lv
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Jelgava city council. VESEL?BAS VEICIN?Å ANAS PROGRAMMA JELGAVAS PILS?TAI2016.-2022.GADAM. Available from: http://www.jelgava.lv/files/jelgavas_ves_veic_programma_2016-2022.pdf [accessed july 2019].

Noteikumi par pārtikā lietojamu sāli

National regulation with maximum thresholds for manufactured food/drink content relating to specific unhealthy ingredients adopted by Cabinet of Ministers from December 2015. (Available only in Latvian language)

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2015 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Cabinet of Ministers
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/25885 (last accessed 20.07.22)

Riga Initiative

Based on the WHO Health Cities Initiative. Improving access to public health programmes, developing health cities and creating healthy and active recreation

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2015 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Linked document:Download linked document

European Union (EU) Action Plan on Childhood Obesity 2014-2020

EU Action plan. To contribute to halting the rise in overweight and obesity in children and young people (0-18 years) by 2020

Categories:Transnational Obesity Strategies/Policy or Action Plan
Year(s):2014-2020
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
Find out more:ec.europa.eu
Linked document:Download linked document
References:EU Action Plan on Childhood Table of contents [Internet]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/health/sites/health/files/nutrition_physical_activity/docs/childhoodobesity_actionplan_2014_2020_en.pdf ‌

Excise tax on non alcoholic beverages

Since 2016 excise duty rate increased to 7.40Euro per 100 Litres.

Categories:Taxation/Subsidies on Food or Beverages or law relating to public health
Year(s):2014 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Find out more:www.fm.gov.lv
References:Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Latvia

Outdoor Fitness Exercise Programmes

Project to show adults the possibility of using outdoor exercise equipment which is available for free in many parks and beaches.

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2013 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Riga City Council Welfare Department

Sports Policy Guidelines 2013-2020

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2013-2020
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Cabinet of Ministers
Linked document:Download linked document

Creativity in Physical Activity

This intervention aims to increase daily physical activity by promoting appropriate and available forms of physical activity in local communities for adults over 45.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2012
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:Government; The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Latvia
Find out more:www.spkc.gov.lv

NDC targets for Latvia

Latvia's NCD targets include the aim of reducing the proportion of people aged 15-64 years who are overweight or obese to 46% by 2020 (49.1% 2012).

Categories:Evidence of NCD strategy
Year(s):2012-2020
Target age group:Adults
References:https://extranet.who.int/ncdccs/Data/LVA_Latvia_NCD_targets.pdf

Nordic Walking for the Elderly

Free Nordic walking lessons for the elderly in every territorial part of Riga to promote daily physical activity and social interaction.

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2012 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:Government; Riga City Council Welfare Department

Regulations on Nutritional Norms for Students of Educational Institutions, Clients of Social Care and Social Rehabilitation Institutions and Patients of Medical Institutions

In 2012, regulations were introduced which set mandatory nutritional content and quality levels in public institutions. including in school meals.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of School Food Regulations
Year(s):2012 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://likumi.lv/ta/id/245300-noteikumi-par-uztura-normam-izglitibas-iestazu-izglitojamiem-socialas-aprupes-un-socialas-rehabilitacijas-instituciju

EU Regulation 1169/2011

Passed in 2011, EU Regulation 1169/2011 on the Provision of Food Information to Consumers requires a list of the nutrient content of most pre-packaged food to be provided on the back of the pack from October 2011.

Categories:Labelling Regulation/Guidelines
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:European Parliament and the Council of the European Union
Find out more:eur-lex.europa.eu
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/22917 (last accessed 28.06.22)

Evaluation of the EU school milk and fruit scheme

European Court of Auditors (2011) Are the school milk and school fruit schemes effective? Special Report No 10. Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.

Categories:Health Effectiveness Reviews (obesity related)
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:EUROPEAN COURT OF AUDITORS
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of World Cancer Research Fund International from their NOURISHING framework www.wcrf.org/NOURISHING

Memorandum of Cooperation

The Ministry of Health signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Federation of Food Enterprises and the soft drink business association on changes to children-orientated soft drink advertising

Categories (partial):Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
Find out more:vm.ee
References:Currently a web link to this intervention is unavailable. If you are aware of the location of this document/intervention, please contact us at obesity@worldobesity.org

Memorandum of Cooperation with industry representatives

In 2011, the Latvian Ministry of Health signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Federation of Food Enterprises and the Association of Soft Drink Companies to encourage companies not to advertise soft drinks to children aged 12 or under. The Memorandum applies to soft drink marketing in movie theatres and on TV if the audience consists of at least 50% children, and includes marketing activities on the internet and in the press.

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
References:https://policydatabase.wcrf.org/level_one?page=nourishing-level-one#step2=3#step3=313

Public Health Strategy 2011-2017

A medium-term public health policy planning document which aims to prolong the healthy life years of the Latvian population and to prevent untimely deaths, while maintaining, improving and restoring health.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2011-2017
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health of the Republic of Latvia
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en

The Implementation Plan of Measures to Supply Fruit and Vegetables to Schools

This plan aims to increase the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables by the students of comprehensive education institutions.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2010-2013
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Ministry of Agriculture
Linked document:Download linked document

Healthy Stadia Network

"At Healthy Stadia, we encourage professional and amateur sports clubs, league operators, national and international governing bodies of sport to develop their stadia and sports facilities as health-promoting environments. We do this by supporting them to adopt a range of policies and practices in support of the health of their fans, their staff and the surrounding community. The definition we give to Healthy Stadia is: Healthy Stadia are… those who promote the health of visitors, fans, players, employees and the surrounding community… places where people can go to have a positive, healthy experience playing or watching sport."

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2008 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
References:https://healthystadia.eu/healthy-stadia-concept/

EU health and nutrient claims regulation

Regulation nº 1924/2006 establishes EU-wide rules on the use of specified health and nutrient claims. The European Commission approves claims provided they are based on scientific evidence and accessible consumers. The European Food Safety Authority is responsible for evaluating the scientific evidence supporting health claims. Nutrition claims may only be used on food defined as "healthy" by a nutrient profile.

Categories:Labelling Regulation/Guidelines
Year(s):2006 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:European Commission
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A32006R1924

Latvian Nutrition Council

The Nutrition Council was established in 2006 with the aim: "To promote the implementation of nutrition policy by analyzing public health problems related to nutrition and providing proposals for solving these problems"

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2006 (ongoing)
References:https://www.vm.gov.lv/lv/uztura-padome

Nutrition-Friendly Schools Initiative (NFSI)

"The NFSI is a school-based programme that addresses the double burden of malnutrition –undernutrition, including micronutrient deficiencies, and overweight/obesity. It is a tool for developing a school environment that promotes the nutritional well-being of school-age children and increases their physical activity levels."

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Evidence of School Food Regulations
Year(s):2006 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:World Health Organization
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://ec.europa.eu/health/sites/default/files/nutrition_physical_activity/docs/implementation_report_a1c_en.pdf

Sports Policy Guidelines 2004-2009

This document, besides addressing the support to athletes and competitive sport, also defines the responsibility for compulsory physical education in children and to provide access to sport for disabled people.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2004-2009
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Cabinet of Ministers
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of HEPA Europe (European network for the promotion of health-enhancing physical activity): http://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/disease-prevention/physical-activity/activities/hepa-europe

Dietary guidelines for adults (Latvian: Veselīga uztura ieteikumi pieaugušajiem)

The Latvian dietary guidelines for children were published in 2003, the guidelines for the elderly in 2007 and those for adults a year later, in 2008. Guidelines for pregnant woman were published in 2017 as well as those for vegetarians. An updated version of guidelines for adults and for the consumption of vegetables, fruits and berries were launched in 2020. There are plans to revise dietary guidelines for children and elderly in 2021.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2003 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults
References:http://www.fao.org/nutrition/education/food-dietary-guidelines/regions/countries/latvia/en/

Guidelines for healthy nutrition 2003-2013 (Pamatnostadnes Veseligs uzturs 2003-2013)

The document includes guidelines for healthy eating and the goal to increase public awareness on the importance of regular physical activity.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2003-2013
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Cabinet of Ministers
Find out more:likumi.lv
Linked document:Download linked document

GNPR 2016-17 (q7) Breastfeeeding promotion and/or counselling

WHO Global Nutrition Policy Review 2016-2017 reported the evidence of breastfeeding promotion and/or counselling (q7)

Categories:Evidence of Breastfeeding promotion or related activity
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:Ministry of Health (information provided by the GINA progam)
Find out more:extranet.who.int
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en

No actions could be found for the above criteria.

Contextual factors

Disclaimer: These contextual factors should be interpreted with care. Results are updated as regularly as possible and use very specific criteria. The criteria used and full definitions are available for download at the bottom of this page.

Tap on a tick to find out more about policies influencing this factor.

Labelling

Is there mandatory nutrition labelling?Present
Front-of-package labelling?Absent
Back-of-pack nutrition declaration?Present
Color coding?Absent
Warning label?Absent

Regulation and marketing

Are there fiscal policies on unhealthy products?Present
Tax on unhealthy foods?Absent
Tax on unhealthy drinks?Present
Are there fiscal policies on healthy products?Absent
Subsidy on fruits?Absent
Subsidy on vegetables?Absent
Subsidy on other healthy products?Absent
Mandatory limit or ban of trans fat (all settings)?Present
Mandatory limit of trans fats in place (all settings)? Present
Ban on trans-fats or phos in place (all settings)? Absent
Are there any mandatory policies/marketing restrictions on the promotion of unhealthy food/drinks to children?Present
Mandatory restriction on broadcast media?Present
Mandatory restriction on non-broadcast media?Present
Voluntary policies/marketing restrictions on the promotion of unhealthy food/drinks to children?Present-(voluntary)
Are there mandatory standards for food in schools?Present
Are there any mandatory nutrient limits in any manufactured food products?Present
Nutrition standards for public sector procurement?Present

Political will and support

National obesity strategy or nutrition and physical activity national strategy?Incoming
National obesity strategy?Incoming
National childhood obesity strategy?Absent
Comprehensive nutrition strategy?Incoming
Comprehensive physical activity strategy?Present
Evidence-based dietary guidelines and/or RDAs?Present
National target(s) on reducing obesity?Present
Guidelines/policy on obesity treatment?Absent
Promotion of breastfeeding?Present

Monitoring and surveillance

Monitoring of the prevalence and incidence for the main obesity-related NCDs and risk factors?Present
Within 5 years?Present

Governance and resource

Multi-sectoral national co-ordination mechanism for obesity or nutrition (including obesity)?Present

Key

Present
Present (voluntary)
Incoming
Absent
Unknown

Last updated September 13, 2022

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Download contextual factors as a PDF Contextual factors definitions

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